Newman Catholic College has suffered a three per cent dip in pupils achieving ‘good’ GCSE grades -but has seen a surge in levels of progress.

45 per cent of pupils achieved A* to C grades –down from 48 per cent last year.

However, the school, in Harlesden Road, saw an increase in three levels of progress between key stages two and four from 80 per cent from 50 per cent last year, according to Danny Coyle, headteacher.

Scores of anxious students went back to the secondary school to collect the all important brown envelopes containing their results.

Fabio Fernandes, who lives in Harlesden gained A*s in religious education, history and english language; As in art, design, French and english literature; Bs in science and Portuguese and Cs in Maths and additional science.

“He said: “I am very happy with my results. I couldn’t believe it.”

The 16 year-old now plans to take history, english, classic civilisation and French, and hopes to one day study ancient history at university.

Another pupil, Daniel Mac, 16, who achieved five As, three Bs and two C grades paid tribute to his teachers.

He said: “My teachers have always been helpful and supportive. They always pushed us to help us achieve our full potential. I am very grateful to them.”

Mr Coyle said: “Staff and students have put in hard work to achieve some wonderful results. The most important thing is that these pupils can go on to the next stage of their education with some good grades in tow.

“A national decline in results because of government changes has been well publicised. What has really impressed me about this school is the improvement in levels of progress.”